Question

identify a monopoly in the global market today, and explain some of the business practices that make it a monopoly.

Explanation:

One prominent global monopoly is Microsoft in the operating system market for personal computers.

1. High Barriers to Entry: Microsoft's Windows OS has massive network effects—most software, hardware, and user training is built around it, making it extremely difficult for new competitors to attract users or developers.
2. Exclusive Agreements: Historically, Microsoft entered into exclusive deals with PC manufacturers to pre-install Windows on nearly all new personal computers, limiting consumer access to competing OS options.
3. Vertical Integration: The company integrates its OS with complementary products like Microsoft Office, Azure cloud services, and Edge browser, creating a closed ecosystem that locks users in and reduces the appeal of rival platforms.

Answer:

A global monopoly example is Microsoft (dominant in PC operating systems). Key practices that maintain its monopoly status:

1. Network effects from widespread user/developer adoption of Windows
2. Historical exclusive pre-installation deals with PC manufacturers
3. Vertical integration with complementary software and cloud services to lock in users